President John Dramani Mahama has launched the Bank of Ghana’s Heritage Series banknotes, saying the new currency will help bring Ghana’s history and national heritage closer to younger generations.
Speaking at the launch on Thursday, 12 November, 2026, President Mahama said the historical figures, landmarks and cultural symbols featured on the notes would encourage young people to learn more about the country’s past.
“These notes will also help bring our history closer to our children. The national figures, the historic places, and the cultural symbols featured on the Heritage Series can prompt questions, encourage learning, and deepen understanding of the country that our children are growing in,” he said.
He said the banknotes would make national history part of everyday life, beyond what young people encounter in classrooms and museums.
“History belongs to our classrooms and museums, and it also deserves a place in our everyday lives. The Heritage Series helps bridge those settings, placing reminders of our national journey in the hands of the new generation,” he added.
President Mahama paid tribute to the national figures recognised on the notes, acknowledging their sacrifices and contributions to Ghana’s development.
He urged young people to draw inspiration from their achievements and play a role in shaping the country’s future through education, enterprise and public service.
“To our young people, I say that you too have a place in this story. Through your learning, enterprise, and service, you will shape what Ghana becomes,” he said.
On the physical features, the president said the new notes were made from reinforced cotton paper to improve their durability and last longer than the existing banknotes.
He added that the notes were also smaller and easier to handle.
President Mahama said the Heritage Series would circulate alongside the existing banknotes, which would be gradually withdrawn by banks as the new notes become more widely available.
“The new notes will run side by side with the old currency notes. They are not displacing the old currency notes. The banks will withdraw the old notes gradually until the new notes take over completely,” he said.
The Bank of Ghana has announced that the Heritage Series will enter circulation on December 1, 2026. Existing banknotes will remain legal tender during the transition.
